President's Article "Lean is more that just a four letter word." By Chrys C. Varnes, C.P.M., President NAPM-Orange County, Inc. Affiliated with the Institute of Supply Management

Writing a monthly column for the Spotlight is my least favorite part of being president. It is hard to explain why. Certainly I have had more than enough experience writing in my career. And I generally enjoy writing. So why is it so difficult for me to write this column?

After giving this some deep thought, I think I have figured out the problem. I have a deep prejudice against columns that give advice. Instead I prefer to read articles that encourage me to think. Throughout the year I hope I can provide some insight that will stimulate some new ideas and energize your enthusiasm for supply chain management.

Our theme for the year is "Lean is more that just a four letter word." I selected this because it applies to our lives both personally and professionally. Lean thinking is the antidote to waste, or "muda" as it is called in Japanese. I like using the word "muda" because it sounds awful when you say it, which is totally appropriate.

Much of the lean thinking theory was developed by former Toyota executive, Taiichi Ohno (1912-1990). He was the arch enemy of waste which is any activity which absorbs resources but creates no value. This includes mistakes that must be corrected, inventories that nobody wants, processing steps that are not needed, movement or transport of goods from one place to another without any purpose, people waiting for things to happen, etc. You get the picture. Waste or "muda" is everywhere in our lives.

Let's spend the next year identifying waste and getting rid of it! I challenge each of you to identify one thing you do that adds no value. Then let me know how you eliminated it. I just bet that there will be a reward sometime during the year for the best example. Next month I will share with you my example.

And don't forget the golf tournament is coming up in September. If you want to see our scholarship fund grow, get involved. You can help by spreading the word to your golf loving friends or selling some raffle tickets. There are always great prizes and lots of fun on the day of the event! (more information)

See you at our next dinner meeting on the 21st!!